By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times GWANDA – A Gwanda magistrate has called for a rethink of Zimbabwe's approach to drug-related offences, arguing that people struggling with drug addiction should be treated as victims requiring rehabilitation rather than criminals, while law enforcement intensifies efforts against suppliers and trafficking networks. Magistrate Wayne Moyo made the remarks while sentencing Sibusiso Baloyi (21), who pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing cannabis after police allegedly found him with prepared dagga joints at Maqethukane Business Centre in Gwanda. Baloyi was fined US$150, payable on or before 7 August 2026, failing which he will serve two months' imprisonment. An additional two-month prison term was wholly suspended for two years on condition that he does not commit another offence involving the unlawful possession of dangerous drugs. In his sentencing remarks, Moyo acknowledged the harmful effects of drug abuse but said addiction should primarily be viewed as a public health issue rather than solely a criminal matter. "It is well-recognised that drugs are inherently addictive, and individuals found in possession are often victims of socio-economic hardships rather than mere criminals," he said. The magistrate questioned whether Zimbabwe's current drug enforcement strategy was targeting those most responsible for the illicit drug trade. "The real culprits behind drug trafficking are often well-connected politically and financially, enabling them to evade arrest and prosecution." He said the justice system should focus more on dismantling drug supply chains while providing rehabilitation and counselling for people battling addiction. Moyo said custodial sentences for simple drug possession may not always achieve justice or reduce substance abuse. "The court finds that the typical harsh sentences imposed for such offences may be unnecessarily punitive. Instead, a focus on reform and rehabilitation is warranted." He urged the Government to invest in more drug rehabilitation centres, counselling services and treatment programmes to address Zimbabwe's growing substance abuse challenge. The magistrate noted that Zimbabwe's dangerous drugs legislation already provides alternatives to imprisonment, including a Level Five fine or an order requiring treatment for addiction in appropriate cases. In support of his reasoning, Moyo cited the Supreme Court judgment in Zimnat Insurance Company Limited v Chawanda, saying the law must evolve to reflect changing societal realities. "The law must remain dynamic and adapt to changing social realities if it is to continue serving the interests of justice," he said. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), detectives were conducting patrols at around 4pm on 2 July when they allegedly saw Baloyi preparing a cannabis joint at Maqethukane Business Centre. Police identified themselves before searching him and reportedly recovered another prepared cannabis joint tucked behind his left ear. He was arrested and later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of dangerous drugs. The case comes amid growing national debate over how Zimbabwe should respond to rising drug and substance abuse, with health experts increasingly advocating treatment-based interventions alongside stronger action against drug trafficking syndicates. Zimbabwe drug law reform

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – A 27-year-old Harare man has been sentenced to an effective two years in prison after defrauding a Zimbabwean healthcare training company of US$69,856 through a fraudulent United Kingdom Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) scheme. Takunda McDonald Pfende pleaded guilty to fraud after falsely claiming he could secure UK Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) for healthcare professionals seeking employment in Britain. According to prosecutors, the offence occurred between May and July 2023, when Pfende misrepresented to Path Quest Overseas (Pvt) Ltd, a Zimbabwean company that trains healthcare workers for overseas employment, that he had the capacity to obtain legitimate UK sponsorship certificates. A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic reference number issued by a UK employer licensed by the Home Office. The certificate is a mandatory requirement for overseas workers applying for a UK Health and Care Worker visa, and can only be issued by employers holding a valid sponsorship licence. The court heard that, acting on Pfende's representations, Path Quest Overseas collected US$5,000 from each of 58 clients intending to work in the United Kingdom before transferring a total of US$69,856 to him. However, after receiving the money, Pfende allegedly became evasive and failed to deliver the promised sponsorship certificates. Unable to secure the promised opportunities, the company reimbursed affected clients before reporting the matter to police. The court sentenced Pfende to five years' imprisonment. One year was suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, while a further two years were suspended on condition that he pays US$65,665 in restitution to the complainant. He will therefore serve an effective two-year custodial sentence. The case reflects a broader pattern of Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) fraud targeting Zimbabweans seeking employment in Britain's healthcare sector. Demand for UK care jobs has risen significantly in recent years, creating opportunities for fraudsters to exploit desperate job seekers with false promises of sponsorship and employment. The UK Government has also tightened oversight of the care sector following widespread abuse of the sponsorship system. According to the UK Home Office, more than 470 care-sector sponsor licences were revoked between July 2022 and December 2024, affecting over 39,000 workers. Authorities cited concerns including labour exploitation, debt bondage, non-compliance with immigration rules and visa fraud. The Home Office has repeatedly warned prospective migrant workers to verify that employers are licensed sponsors before paying recruitment or placement fees. Zimbabwean authorities have also urged job seekers to use registered recruitment agencies and to verify overseas employment offers before making any payments. UK Certificate of Sponsorship fraud Zimbabwe

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Police have arrested two women in connection with the death of a 19-year-old man whose body was discovered near a house in Green Valley, Epworth, as detectives investigate four separate suspected murder cases reported in and around Harare over the weekend. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that Brenda Zvomuya (19) and Irene Nyathi (29) are assisting with investigations into the death of Tanaka Jenyura (19). According to police, Jenyura left his home on Saturday night to visit Zvomuya, who was reportedly his girlfriend. Investigators say that upon arriving at the house in Green Valley, he knocked on the door but was allegedly refused entry after Zvomuya told him their relationship had ended. She also reportedly claimed that he appeared to be intoxicated. Police said Jenyura continued knocking and demanding to be allowed inside. Investigators further allege that Nyathi, who resides at the same house, woke up after being disturbed by the noise and warned Jenyura before allegedly throwing cold water on him. At around 7am on Sunday, a passer-by reportedly alerted Nyathi that a man was lying motionless on the roadside approximately 15 metres from the house. Nyathi allegedly informed Zvomuya, who then notified the deceased's sister. Police said Jenyura's body had visible injuries, including swelling to the forehead and mouth as well as a bruise on the left elbow. The body was taken to Chitungwiza Central Hospital Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to establish the cause of death. "I am not sure what transpired," said the deceased's sister, Rumbidzayi Jenyura. Police said investigations are continuing and urged the public not to speculate until forensic examinations are completed. In a separate case, detectives are investigating the death of an unidentified man whose body was found along a dust road in Dzivarasekwa Extension on Sunday. The deceased had a deep cut above the right eye, scars on both hands, a fractured right leg and a swollen back. Police said no blood matching the injuries was found at the scene, suggesting the body may have been dumped there. The victim, who was covered with a grey blanket, was taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals Mortuary for identification and a post-mortem examination. In Ruwa, police are investigating another suspected murder after an unidentified man was discovered dead inside a parked blue Nissan Note at Dabuka Village near Mabvazuva. The deceased sustained multiple stab wounds to the chest, left armpit and shoulder. Investigators recovered a note containing the vehicle's registration details during a search. Meanwhile, police have launched investigations after the body of an unidentified woman was found at Ingwe Farm in Glen View. The woman had a deep cut to the left side of her chest. Police are also investigating allegations that she may have been sexually assaulted before being killed. Her body was taken to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital Mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has appealed to anyone with information that could assist in any of the four investigations to report to the nearest police station. Epworth teen found dead

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Zimbabwe's biggest traditional dance competition, the 2026 Delta Beverages-sponsored Chibuku NeShamwari Traditional Dance Festival, will culminate in the national finals at Harare Gardens on 1 August, with ten provincial champions competing for a US$15,000 grand prize. The annual festival, one of Zimbabwe's premier cultural events, celebrates the country's rich traditional dance heritage while providing a platform for communities to preserve and showcase indigenous performing arts. According to a statement released by Delta Beverages, this year's competition is being held under the theme "Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay'sgubhu Mngane," which promotes cultural unity and friendship through traditional dance. Ten dance groups that emerged victorious during provincial competitions will represent their respective provinces at the national finale. The winning group will receive US$15,000, while the first runner-up will take home US$10,000. The second runner-up will be awarded US$7,500. The festival is coordinated by the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), with sponsorship from Delta Beverages through its Chibuku brand. Provincial competitions began on 9 May 2026, drawing large crowds across the country as traditional dance groups competed for places in the national finals. "The National Finals will be held on 1 August 2026 at Harare Gardens, where the top ten provincial champion groups will compete for the national title," Delta Beverages said in a statement. The organisers said this year's provincial contests were highly competitive, reflecting growing interest in traditional dance and cultural preservation. The Chibuku NeShamwari Traditional Dance Festival has become one of Zimbabwe's longest-running cultural festivals, playing a significant role in preserving indigenous dances, languages and cultural traditions. Beyond competition, the event provides opportunities for artists to earn income while encouraging younger generations to appreciate Zimbabwe's diverse cultural heritage. Harare Gardens is expected to host thousands of spectators, cultural enthusiasts and tourists for the national finale, which has become a major fixture on Zimbabwe's arts and entertainment calendar. The festival also aligns with national efforts to promote cultural industries as part of the country's creative economy, while strengthening community identity through traditional music and dance. Chibuku NeShamwari 2026

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Ward 12 Councillor Simon Manzanga has appealed to the Government and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to expedite the issuance of lease agreements and offer letters for residents living in approved settlements, saying delays are fuelling illegal developments and leaving families vulnerable to demolitions. The call follows the recent demolition of more than 760 houses in Ward 12, leaving hundreds of families homeless and highlighting longstanding challenges surrounding land tenure, housing cooperatives and urban planning in Harare. Speaking in an interview, Cllr Manzanga said while housing cooperatives had made significant progress in providing accommodation, many residents remain without legal ownership documents. "We appeal to the Ministry of Local Government for approved plans to get lease agreements and offer letters," he said. Manzanga urged authorities to fast-track the approval of settlement plans and cadastral maps to prevent further illegal construction. He warned that the absence of approved layouts has resulted in land reserved for public infrastructure, including schools, clinics and community centres, being illegally allocated for residential stands. "This area has a lot of housing cooperatives and if there are no approved plans, as is the current situation, it results in land meant for schools, clinics and community centres being allocated for housing stands," he said. He added that bureaucratic delays were worsening Harare's housing crisis. "We are facing challenges of delayed paperwork. I appeal for Government intervention because what is important for residents of Harare is shelter, and this is leading to demolitions." The councillor advised prospective homeowners to ensure they have valid documentation before constructing houses. "I urge residents, before construction, to first understand the situation and position of their land so they do not waste their money on land that will end up being demolished," he said. He also called on the City of Harare and the Ministry of Local Government to prevent illegal developments on land designated for public institutions. "There is a need for Local Government and council to stop developments on land meant for schools, clinics or other Government institutions to avoid demolitions." According to Manzanga, the demolition of more than 760 houses has left many families living in difficult conditions. "A house could have had 10 or 15 occupants, so the figures of people affected by the demolitions are huge." He said many displaced residents are now renting accommodation or living in temporary shelters without access to clean water, sanitation or adequate protection from the winter weather. "The people are camped where there is no water, no toilets and shelter with this cold weather. We appeal to the highest offices to see how they can assist." Manzanga said the demolitions followed a court ruling involving a Chinese national who successfully claimed ownership of the disputed land. "The courts do not lie, but we also pity the affected families, the money wasted by residents building the houses, building materials, boreholes drilled all that was demolished. That is why we appeal to Government to intervene." The councillor called for the affected families to be legally resettled as authorities work towards resolving Harare's growing housing and land tenure challenges. Harare Ward 12 demolitions

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times MASVINGO – The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public Accounts has sharply criticised Mwenezi Rural District Council Chief Executive Officer Albert Chivanga after an Auditor-General's report revealed that a council-owned motorcycle was allocated to a non-employee without a council resolution. The committee, chaired by Caston Matewu, said the allocation raised serious governance and accountability concerns, particularly after it emerged that the recipient allegedly did not possess a valid driver's licence. The matter was discussed during public hearings held at Clevers Hotel near Lake Mutirikwi three weeks ago, where the committee questioned 10 local authorities over findings contained in the Auditor-General's 2021–2023 audit reports. During the hearing, Matewu criticised Chivanga's handling of council assets, saying the local authority appeared to be operating without proper governance procedures. "You allocated a motorbike to someone who is not an employee. Why did you give someone who is not a council employee a motorbike and furthermore without authority from full council? The person did not even have a driver's licence," Matewu said. "How does that happen and who made that decision? What caused that decision to happen?" According to the Auditor-General's findings, the motorcycle was allocated without approval from the full council, despite being council property. Responding to the committee, Chivanga acknowledged that he had failed to verify whether the recipient held a valid driver's licence. He said the motorcycle had been allocated following a recommendation from the council's Agriculture and Environment Department to enable the individual to monitor areas affected by illegal gold mining on behalf of the local authority. "The motorcycle was handed over after a recommendation was given by the Agriculture and Environment Department. I omitted to check whether the recipient had a licence," Chivanga told the committee. He maintained that the council's transport policy gives the Chief Executive Officer authority to allocate council vehicles without requiring a resolution from the full council. "There is no council resolution. Our transport policy allows the CEO to authorise anyone to drive a council vehicle. No action was taken against the director who made the recommendation." Unsatisfied with the explanation, Matewu said the committee would summon Mwenezi Rural District Council to Parliament for a more detailed examination of the matter. The Public Accounts Committee is mandated to scrutinise the use of public resources and ensure government institutions and local authorities implement recommendations made by the Auditor-General. The latest findings come amid growing parliamentary scrutiny of governance, procurement practices and asset management in Zimbabwe's local authorities following recurring adverse audit findings. Mwenezi RDC CEO

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HEADLANDS – Police in Manicaland are investigating the sudden death of a four-year-old girl who collapsed while walking home with her mother and siblings in Headlands last Wednesday. The child was rushed to hospital after she was found unconscious but was pronounced dead on arrival. Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident, saying the circumstances surrounding the child's death are still under investigation. According to police, the incident occurred on 8 July 2026 near Berthel Cop Business Centre in Kubatana, Headlands. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said the child's mother, Juliet Mashereni (36), a teacher at Gazaland Private College, had been walking home with her three children after work. The children were aged six years, four years, and one year and seven months, respectively. "On July 8, 2026, at Berthel Cop Business Centre in Kubatana, Headlands, Juliet Mashereni, a woman aged 36, was walking from Gazaland Private College, where she works as a teacher, to her home at Kubatana Business Centre with her three children," Chinyoka said. Police said the mother was walking a short distance ahead of the children when her eldest child alerted her that the four-year-old had fallen. "About a few metres from their home, her six-year-old child called out to her that her four-year-old daughter had collapsed." The police spokesperson said the mother found the child lying face down and unconscious. "She saw her lying on the ground on her stomach, unconscious. The mother tried to lift her while calling her to no avail." After informing her husband, the couple rushed the child to hospital, where medical personnel pronounced her dead upon arrival. Police attended the scene after receiving a report, and the child's body was taken to Rusape General Hospital Mortuary for a post-mortem examination. "A report was made to ZRP Headlands, and police attended the scene. The body was conveyed to Rusape General Hospital mortuary, awaiting post-mortem. Investigations are in progress," Chinyoka said. Authorities have not yet disclosed the suspected cause of death, pending the outcome of the post-mortem examination and ongoing investigations. Police have urged members of the public to avoid speculation until medical findings establish the circumstances surrounding the child's death. The incident has left the Headlands community in shock as family members await answers about the sudden loss. Headlands girl collapses and dies

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – AmaZulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House in Harare, with both sides reaffirming the importance of strengthening historical, cultural and economic ties between Zimbabwe and South Africa. The Zulu monarch was accompanied by a royal delegation that included King Ndamase of the AmaMpondo Kingdom, as well as traditional leaders from South Africa. The high-level engagement comes at a time when South Africa is experiencing anti-migrant protests in several provinces, and Zimbabwe continues to facilitate the return of nationals affected by the unrest. Since 28 May 2026, the Zimbabwean Government has been implementing an assisted repatriation programme. Government figures indicate that more than 21,000 Zimbabweans have been assisted to return home, while an estimated 56,832 others have returned independently. In a statement shared on social media after the meeting, President Mnangagwa said the visit underscored the enduring cultural and historical relationship between the two neighbouring countries. "Our meeting reinforces the deep, historical, and unbreakable cultural bonds that unite the people of Zimbabwe and South Africa," Mnangagwa said. "Traditional leadership remains a cornerstone of our African identity, preserving our rich heritage and guiding our communities toward peace and unity." The President said Zimbabwe remained committed to strengthening regional cooperation through mutual respect and dialogue. "Zimbabwe continues to open its doors to our regional brothers and sisters as we strengthen these foundational ties. We look forward to continued collaboration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity between our nations." Addressing journalists after the meeting, ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said the discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Zimbabwe and South Africa and addressing shared post-colonial socio-economic challenges. "His Royal Highness, he is the King of the Kingdom of the Zulus. He came here with a very powerful delegation, which also included King Ndamase of the AmaMpondo Kingdom in South Africa," Mutsvangwa said. He said the delegation had requested a direct audience with President Mnangagwa to discuss issues affecting communities in the region. "They felt that as kings, they have a role to play, and they respect President Mnangagwa as a regional leader and liberation fighter. They did not want their message to be filtered through third parties." According to Mutsvangwa, the delegation held a private meeting with the President on Monday before Tuesday's official engagement attended by Cabinet ministers and senior government officials. Mutsvangwa said discussions also touched on migration, employment opportunities and the role of traditional leadership in promoting peace and regional stability. "We see it as a challenge of development. They also delved into how the two countries, and the Kingdom, can cooperate with Zimbabwe so that we can have a more organised labour movement, more job opportunities, so people can stay where they should be, and labour can move without the challenges of competing for scarce employment opportunities." He said King Misuzulu and King Ndamase were expected to have lunch with ZANU PF officials before returning to South Africa. The meeting comes as both Zimbabwe and South Africa continue engaging on migration, cross-border cooperation and regional economic integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). King Misuzulu meets Mnangagwa

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Isheanesu Chirisa, Executive Director of Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) Zimbabwe, has been named Director of the Year 2025 in the NGOs and Civil Society Organisations category by the Institute of Directors Zimbabwe (IoDZ). The prestigious award recognises outstanding leadership, ethical governance and excellence in organisational management within Zimbabwe's non-governmental and civil society sector. The Institute of Directors Zimbabwe honours leaders who demonstrate visionary leadership, accountability and strong corporate governance while driving meaningful impact in their respective organisations. Reacting to the accolade, WLSA Zimbabwe said the recognition reflects Chirisa's commitment to advancing women's legal rights and promoting access to justice across the country. "The award honours directors who lead with vision and govern with integrity. These are the very principles Isheanesu brings to WLSA Zimbabwe's work every day as we advance women's legal rights and access to justice," the organisation said. WLSA Zimbabwe added that the achievement is shared by everyone who contributes to the organisation's mission. "This achievement belongs to all of us our board, staff, partners, and the communities we serve." Under Chirisa's leadership, WLSA Zimbabwe has continued to champion legal empowerment initiatives, advocate for gender equality and provide legal support to women and vulnerable communities through policy engagement, public education and strategic litigation. The recognition comes at a time when civil society organisations are playing an increasingly important role in promoting access to justice, human rights and inclusive development in Zimbabwe. The Institute of Directors Zimbabwe annually recognises individuals and organisations that demonstrate excellence in leadership, corporate governance and ethical management across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Isheanesu Chirisa Director of the Year

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times JOHANNESBURG – South African anti-illegal immigration movement March and March has confirmed the death of one of its regional leaders, Andile Somgxada, who succumbed to gunshot wounds after being shot outside his home in Ekurhuleni earlier this month. According to the organisation, Somgxada was shot on 4 July 2026 as he was leaving his residence. He was taken to hospital, where he died from his injuries on 9 July. Police had not publicly announced any arrests or confirmed a motive for the shooting at the time of publication. March and March spokesperson Sandile Dube described the killing as an assassination and claimed the organisation has been receiving death threats linked to its campaign against illegal immigration. "March and March has been receiving death threats in this case of our leader in Ekurhuleni," Dube said. "So, we confirm that there are many death threats that we are receiving throughout South Africa for wanting what's best for the South Africans." Dube alleged that several leaders within the movement have recently been threatened in different parts of the country. However, he did not provide evidence linking the threats or Somgxada's killing to any specific individuals or groups, and the claims have not been independently verified. According to Dube, the movement believes the threats are connected to its campaigns against undocumented immigration, extortion syndicates and other criminal activities. He alleged that some of the threats originate from individuals who benefit financially from collecting protection fees from undocumented foreign nationals operating illegal businesses. Dube also claimed that the movement's regional leader in Tshwane received threatening messages after a march held in Mamelodi on 9 July. He said similar threats had also been reported by March and March members in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, and parts of Mpumalanga. These allegations have not been independently verified, and no law enforcement agency has publicly linked the reported threats to organised criminal groups. Despite the reported threats, Dube said March and March would continue holding its weekly Thursday demonstrations, particularly in Gauteng, where the organisation says it is campaigning against illegal immigration and related criminal activities. "We call upon South Africans to stand up in defence of their country against drug cartels, extortionists disguised as security companies, drug dealers and human trafficking agents whose businesses are being disrupted by these continuous marches," he said. The movement has in recent months organised protests in several South African cities calling for stricter immigration enforcement and action against undocumented migrants. Authorities have repeatedly urged members of the public to report suspected criminal activity through law enforcement channels and have warned against vigilantism or acts of violence targeting foreign nationals. Investigations into Somgxada's death are continuing. Andile Somgxada

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times BINGA – The opening of the modernised Kasambabezi Border Post in Binga District has been hailed as a major step towards strengthening trade, tourism and regional integration between Zimbabwe and Zambia, with government officials describing the facility as a catalyst for economic growth under Vision 2030. The upgraded border post is expected to improve the movement of people and goods, promote formal cross-border trade and create new business opportunities for communities on both sides of the Zambezi River. Speaking during the commissioning of the facility, Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo said the project demonstrates the Second Republic's commitment to improving regional connectivity and expanding economic cooperation. "Decades after Independence, the New Dispensation has transformed what was once an informal crossing into a fully fledged border post, creating a seamless gateway between Zimbabwe and Zambia," Moyo said. He said the project aligns with Zimbabwe's foreign policy of maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring countries while supporting regional economic integration. "Guided by the national foreign policy principle that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, the development is expected to unlock new markets, promote formal cross-border trade and deepen economic cooperation with neighbouring countries." Moyo said the new border post would significantly reduce travel time and transport costs for residents of Binga, who previously had to travel through Victoria Falls to cross legally into Zambia. "Previously, travellers from Binga were forced to travel approximately 320 kilometres via Victoria Falls to access Zambia through formal channels. Today, the distance has been reduced to less than 500 metres across the border, significantly cutting travel time and costs while creating new opportunities in commerce, tourism and public boat transport." Binga District Development Coordinator Land Kabome said the new border post positions the district to benefit from increased tourism, investment and cross-border commerce. He highlighted Binga's tourism attractions, including Lake Kariba's sandy beaches and the cultural heritage of the BaTonga people, which he said could attract more domestic and international visitors. "The development showcases Binga's immense tourism potential, including Zimbabwe's largest sandy beach along Lake Kariba and the rich cultural heritage of the BaTonga people, positioning the district as an emerging regional tourism and investment destination." ZANU-PF Matabeleland North Secretary for Information and Publicity Daniel Sithole said the border post reflects the Government's commitment to ensuring equitable development across the country. "The commissioning of the modern Kasambabezi Border Post is a clear demonstration of the Second Republic's commitment to inclusive development and ensuring that no community is left behind." Sithole also announced that construction of a new Registry Office in Binga is now 95 percent complete, bringing key government services including birth registration, national identity documents and passport processing closer to residents. He expressed optimism that the long-awaited rehabilitation of the Binga Road would also be prioritised under the Government's infrastructure development programme. Government has also rolled out climate resilience and livelihood projects in the district, including the establishment of four Village Business Units and the rehabilitation of the Simatelele Irrigation Scheme, initiatives aimed at improving food security, increasing household incomes and supporting Zimbabwe's goal of attaining upper middle-income economy status by 2030. Kasambabezi Border Post

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times JOHANNESBURG – South African police have dismissed speculation that the family of alleged UK triple murder suspect Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma helped him evade arrest, revealing instead that his relatives assisted investigators in locating and apprehending him. The disclosure was made on Monday, 13 July 2026, when Tshuma appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates' Court following his arrest in Sandton on Friday. South African authorities have begun extradition proceedings to return the 45-year-old British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage to the United Kingdom. Tshuma is wanted in connection with the deaths of his wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, and their daughters, Natalie and Nala, whose bodies were discovered in the United Kingdom. Speaking outside court, South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said Tshuma's family had cooperated fully with investigators. "We have seen his mother and his brother in court this morning. Yes, he has family in South Africa, but I think we must make it quite clear that his family did not harbour him," Mathe said. She added that the family had worked closely with law enforcement agencies during the investigation. "They assisted us greatly in apprehending him and played a very pivotal role together with SAPS Interpol Pretoria and our organised crime investigation teams." Mathe confirmed that South Africa had received a provisional extradition request from Interpol Manchester through Interpol Pretoria. Authorities are awaiting the formal extradition request, which will include the complete UK case docket and supporting evidence. In addition to the extradition proceedings, Tshuma is facing a separate criminal case in South Africa after police allegedly found him in possession of an unlicensed firearm during his arrest. According to Mathe, investigators believe Tshuma purchased the firearm shortly after arriving in South Africa. "On Friday during his arrest, he was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm. According to our investigation, after landing in South Africa on 5 July, he went to one of the townships where he bought this firearm." Police have launched investigations to identify the individual who allegedly sold him the weapon. Mathe said investigators suspect the firearm may have been intended for suicide before police intervened. "It is our suspicion that this particular firearm was going to be used to end his life. It is commendable that our teams worked quickly to arrest him before that process could unfold so that he can answer to the crimes he allegedly committed in the UK." SAPS explained that Tshuma entered South Africa on 5 July, before UK authorities discovered the victims' bodies on 6 July and before an Interpol Red Notice had been issued. Mathe said South African investigators had already begun tracking leads before the international alert was circulated. "South Africa is not a safe haven for criminals. It also speaks to the operational excellence, professionalism and expertise of SAPS teams who work tirelessly to arrest wanted fugitives." Tshuma remains in custody as South African courts consider the UK's extradition request. He is also expected to face separate proceedings relating to the alleged illegal possession of a firearm. Under both South African and UK law, Tshuma is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma